Speech-Language Pathologist, John Paul II Center for Special Learning

Diocese of Allentown

John Paul II Center for Special Learning, Shillington

Position Description

• Position Title: Speech-Language Pathologist
• Location: John Paul II Center for Special Learning Adult Program, Shillington, PA
• Reports To: Principal and Director of Adult Services
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
• Position Type: Part-Time, 2 Days Per Week

Position Summary

The John Paul II Center for Special Learning Adult Program is seeking a compassionate and skilled Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) to provide evaluation, treatment, and consultation services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The ideal candidate will have experience in dysphagia (swallowing disorders), articulation therapy, and functional communication development. This position plays a vital role in supporting participants' health, safety, communication skills, and overall quality of life.

Essential Responsibilities

Clinical Services

• Conduct speech-language and swallowing evaluations for adult program participants.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans addressing communication, articulation, swallowing, and feeding needs.
• Provide direct therapy services in individual and small-group settings.
• Assess and monitor dysphagia and recommend appropriate dietary modifications and safe swallowing strategies.
• Collaborate with participants, families, nursing staff, caregivers, and interdisciplinary team members to support communication and feeding goals.
• Maintain accurate documentation of evaluations, treatment plans, progress notes, and recommendations.

Communication Support

• Address articulation deficits and speech intelligibility concerns.
• Support expressive and receptive language development.
• Assist participants in developing functional communication skills for community engagement, vocational activities, and daily living.
• Evaluate and recommend augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) supports when appropriate.

Consultation and Training

• Provide training and support to staff regarding communication strategies and safe feeding and swallowing practices.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and contribute to participant care planning.
• Monitor participant progress and update treatment goals as needed.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited program.
• Current Pennsylvania Speech-Language Pathologist license.
• Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) preferred.
• Experience working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities preferred.
• Experience in dysphagia assessment and treatment required.
• Experience providing articulation therapy required.
• Knowledge of AAC systems and functional communication supports preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and documentation skills.

Additional Conditions of Employment

Due to the nature and mission of the Catholic Church, all employees are bound to exhibit respect for the teachings and discipline of the Church in regard to matters of faith and morals, including maintaining a lifestyle that is in conformity with the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Mission Commitment

The successful candidate will support the mission of the John Paul II Center for Special Learning by promoting dignity, independence, communication, and quality of life for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities within a safe, nurturing, and faith-centered environment.

Physical Requirements

Must have the ability to assist with feeding and swallowing assessments; move throughout the facility and participate in community-based programming as needed; and lift, bend, and position materials or adaptive equipment when necessary.

Working Conditions

This is a part-time position with a maximum of 29 hours weekly for a ten-month school year, unless other arrangements are made with the principal to work in the summer. Normal work hours are 2 days of the week, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

How to Apply

• Interested applicants must submit a resume and cover letter to:
• John Paul II Center for Special Learning
• Principal, Kaylee Simcik
• Email: ksimcik@johnpauliicenter.org
• Compensation: Competitive hourly rate based on experience and qualifications.

EOE M/F/D/V